Adult Classical Ballet: Balance, Bone, & Brain Health Benefits

Apparently, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

I am 57 years old. I have scoliosis and osteoporosis. I have given birth to 9 children. Over the years I have become increasingly proactive about my health. For most of my adult life I have had a pretty healthy diet and health habits. I have tired to walk several times a week for years.

However, my scoliosis had grown increasingly worse and I was becoming less and less active and in more and more pain. I spent two weeks at a scoliosis clinic 18 months ago and still wear a brace at night. Since then I have had much less pain and been increasing strength and stamina. But this is not a scoliosis post...

For years a lady I have known in my town for a while has encouraged me to come to her adult classical ballet class. I was a ballet drop out at 6 years old. I am not athletic or graceful. I didn't think this was for me at all. But in May, she mentioned it again and I got to thinking about it. I thought about how it might help me with my posture, balance and bone strength, all of which are very important to me. I do feel like I am at increased risk of breaking a hip and want to prevent that.

In June I took the plunge and started the class. Once a week I am "at the barre" in class with other adults. At least one other lady is a grandma, so I don't feel too old (though I think I am the oldest student.)

Well, it turns out that I am really enjoying it. Between classes I watch Youtube videos and tutorials on adult ballet. I watch and follow along with video lessons and classes.

For years I have been dismayed that I can only remember half of a 6 digit security code when I am signing in to something and get sent a code. I would always have to go back and check on the second half. A couple of weeks ago I realized that I can remember the entire code now. I am pretty sure it is because of ballet. I got to thinking about how much physical activity helps the brain. When I am at ballet class my mind and body are working so hard. I have to concentrate the entire class. There is so much to learn. Children who have never crawled often have trouble learning to read. There is something happening in our brains when our muscles are at work.

I can tell I am getting stronger. I can pick up grandchildren that I haven't been able to pick up for a while. I can feel the muscles in my core doing stuff. I can see a difference, too.

I have heard a couple of people claim that working on improving balance (a big part of ballet) is supposed to help prevent Alzheimer's disease.

Ballet isn't everyone's cup of tea. I think there are other types of dance and activity that engage the muscles and the brain and utilize balance and strength that would accomplish the same goals.

Anyway, if you are interested, just look up adult beginner ballet videos and watch and follow along!

This is must my 2 month update. I will post again down the road and let you know how it's going.

~Mama to Many~

Could you please let me know the name of that back brace, that you mention from Amazon. Thank you.